AFTER previous applications were rejected, Thurrock Council planning officers have now given outline planning approval for four new homes in the green belt at Fobbing.

The decision has been made despite opposition from local residents.

The new four-bedroom detached properties are planned for a plot of land off Fobbing High Road which is adjacent to a highly controversial site where - after years of wrangling - permission was granted for five detached single storey homes in 2023.

The plan shows how the new homes will be built adjacent to the already controversially agreed homes (shown in cross-hatched area).

Initially a succession of applications for that site were rejected, but, against officer advice, planning councillors eventually gave the go-ahead for five detached homes.

Now, approval has been given for four more new homes behind an adjacent property, where a garage will be demolished to create a new access road.

While the adjacent development went through public planning meetings and required a decision by councillors, the new application has been approved by officers.